Compass American Guides: Idaho

by John Gottberg

Fodor’s. For Choice Travel Experiences.

The guide that has it all–spectacular photography, evocative prose, insider tips, and detailed color maps to help you make the most of your trip. Written by longtime Idaho residents, Compass American Guides Idaho provides in-depth coverage of the history, culture and character of one of America’s most spectacular destinations! Follow your Compass to “get” there.

• Experience the true Great Outdoors. Hit the slopes of the Sun Valley ski resort, cast a line at Hemingway’s favorite fishing hole, and check out the otherworldly Craters of the Moon.

• Stunning images. Full-color photos capture Idaho’s rugged beauty, from the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rushing wilderness rivers. Fascinating archival images illuminate the state’s vibrant history.

• Feel the past come to life. Learn about the brutal Nez Percé War and the pioneer treks along the Oregon Trail. Discover eerie ghost towns, go rafting on the River of No Return, and cheer at a rodeo.

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What the critics say about Compass American
“Lushly illustrated and intelligently written.” — National Geographic Traveler

“The most literate and elegant series of guides ever written about North America.” — Jan Morris

Genres: Travel

288 pages, Paperback

First published July 9, 1996

About the author

John Gottberg Anderson

Reviews

[Rogue Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gottberg's Compass American Guide to Idaho is a well written and beautifully photographed travel guide that informed a recent vacation along US84, the smile of Idaho that follows the Snake River. Arranged by region, I easily followed along to view some of the most spectacular landscape that I've ever seen. Boise's Basque heritage, local artisan foodmakers and growers, Shoshone Falls, the Snake River basin with incredible waterfalls spilling out of cliffs, along to the northern part of the region, with the black volcanic remains at Craters of the Moon. An atomic burger in Arco, the National Potato Museum in Blackfoot, the Museum of Clean in Pocatello, and a splendid soak in Lava Hot Springs thermal pools.

Idaho! Who would have guessed? We'll be back!

--Ashland Mystery

[Jill]

Plenty of pictures and little historical quotes to take you in-depth about a few extra topics. Not as much a travel guidebook (go here, eat this, call here - though it does have some directions and contact info) as a history and cultural primer. Good for people who like spouting fun facts like a tour guide even though you've never been there.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great information about lots of different places in the state. Very wordy, so be prepared to read before your trip and take notes!

[Howard Frisk · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a welcome addition to my collection of Idaho travel publications. The book divides the state into 5 geographical sections and includes detailed and colorful maps, historical and present-day photographs. There is only some information on accommodations and places to eat. There are other books that cover that in greater detail, such as Idaho by Teresa Bruffey Kaufman. I especially liked the 28-page section on the history of Idaho. There was a lot in interesting facts and historical photographs and illustrations.

Overall, a pretty good book.